Michael Back of was given the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the environment, sustainability, ethical practices and education.

Underlining its impeccable green credentials and just ahead of the farm’s centenary in 2016, Backsberg also walked off with the Amorim Sustainability Award for Wine at the annual The Drinks Business Green Awards ceremony.

Michael Back is renowned for challenging conventions in terms of environmental action and sustainability. He is also well respected for his community work and passion for social responsibility. Michael joined his father at the farm in 1976, after graduating in Viticulture and Oenology at Stellenbosch University.

In 2006, Backsberg became the first carbon neutral winery in South Africa and the third in the world. The focus on the farm for the last decade has been on reducing the emissions impact through reduction in fuel and electricity usage. At the same time, Backsberg initiated an environmental impact study and has made sustainability core to the business. The farm is developing biomass energy crops and the cleaned methane from the bio-digester will be harnessed to power converted farm vehicles and to power an electricity generator.

Michael’s son, Simon, the fourth generation at the farm, collected the award on Tuesday 21st April on his behalf at a ceremony held in London. “This is a very special honour for my father and I am delighted to be here to collect not only this award but the Amorim Sustainability Award too. I know my father would want to say that this is a Backsberg team effort. We are committed to driving sustainability and both these awards are great recognition for our commitment to serving the environment.”

Europe’s leading drinks trade publication, The Drinks Business Green Awards runs an annual program of drinks industry awards and is the world’s largest programme to raise awareness of green issues and recognise and reward those who are leading the way in sustainability and environmental performance.